Tommy John’s April 1974 N.L. Player of the Month Award, Helms Award and More!
Lot 88. Tommy John’s April 1974 N.L. Player of the Month Award, Helms Award and More! Pitching for the LA Dodgers in April 1974, John was close enough to perfect. Starting six games, he won five. In 46 innings, he yielded only five earned runs, for a 1.76 ERA. In recognition of his success, the N.L. Baseball Writers & Broadcasters selected him as the league’s top performer. For being chosen, the N.L. presented John with a pen and pencil set mounted in a marble-like 6.5” x 13” base. A brass plaque on the base, which has a facsimile signature of N.L. President Charles Feeney, provides the details. The pen holders are present, but the pens are not. The award is accompanied by a name plate from John’s desk and an apparent note pad holder. For his performance in April, John was honored also by the Citizens Savings Athletic Foundation, which formerly was the Helms Athletic Foundation. He received a 2.75” medal as the foundation’s Athlete of the Month. The medal is housed in a wood case with a brass plate recognizing John as the National League Player of the Week during 1977. The relevant medal is absent. In 1974, with 13 wins, only three losses and a 2.59 ERA, John was on his way to a possible Cy Young season when he injured his elbow. It would take 20 months of pain, hard work and courage for him to return to the mound again in 1976. Comes with an LoA from John. Winning Bid $100.
